Govt deploys 475 mobile veterinary clinics

The government has procured 475 mobile veterinary clinics (MVCs) to deliver livestock services directly to farmers across the country.

These MVCs are currently deployed in nearly all upazila livestock offices, ensuring farmers in remote areas receive timely treatment and advisory services.

Mostofa Kamal, project director for the livestock and dairy development project (LDDP) under the livestock ministry, shared the information yesterday at a workshop on the project’s progress, held at InterContinental Dhaka.

He added that under the LDDP, initiatives such as livestock farmer field schools (LFFS), training programmes, vaccination drives, disease surveillance, artificial insemination, and farmer profiling have been intensified.

Financial inclusion for farmers has also been promoted through bank account openings and cooperative savings, linking them to formal financial systems, he said.

MVCs are specialised vehicles equipped to provide on-site, door-to-door veterinary services, bridging the gap between rural, remote areas and professional animal healthcare.

These clinics offer comprehensive services, including diagnosis, treatment, vaccinations, surgeries, and artificial insemination for cattle and livestock, reducing mortality and increasing economic stability for farmers.

Kamal also said that so far, 135 wet markets have been constructed and handed over.

In addition, modern slaughterhouses are under construction in 13 district towns, which will further strengthen the safe and hygienic meat supply chain, he said.

Food, Fisheries and Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid said an agriculture card will soon be introduced to address the current lack of accurate and coordinated data on farmers. This card will provide authentic information to improve service delivery.

Sultan Salahuddin Tuku, state minister for Fisheries and Livestock, Agriculture and Food, emphasised that the government has undertaken several initiatives to strengthen and sustain the agriculture-based economy.

Under the prime minister’s leadership, multiple plans are already underway to ensure overall sectoral progress, he said.

To support small farmers, the government has waived Tk 10,000 crore in agricultural loans, easing financial burdens and encouraging increased production, he added.